Barrie, Ontario, November 5, 2012 – Families and businesses in Barrie will benefit from major improvements to the Highway 400 and Duckworth interchange, thanks to a joint funding initiative announced today by the Honourable Denis Lebel, Canada's Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable Bob Chiarelli, Ontario Minister of Infrastructure and Minister of Transportation.
Through the Provincial-Territorial Base Fund, the governments of Canada and Ontario are providing a joint investment of up to $41.9 million, which also includes a municipal contribution, towards eligible costs for the Highway 400 and Duckworth Interchange and the widening and realignment of Duckworth Street and Cundles Road.
"The Government of Canada supports a stronger Canadian economy by investing in infrastructure projects that contribute to increased trade, efficient movement of goods and people, and economic growth,"
said Patrick Brown, Member of Parliament for Barrie. "Improvements to the Highway 400 and Duckworth Interchange as well as the widening and realignment of Duckworth Street and Cundles Road are an example of our government's commitment to Ontario's long-term economic growth while building strong and safe roads that are good for Canadians and communities alike."
"With the Ontario government's significant investments towards the expansion of Royal Vic Hospital and Georgian College, the upgrades to the Duckworth Interchange are welcome news for the City of Barrie,"
said Steven Del Duca, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Finance and Member of Provincial Parliament for Vaughan. "This investment will create jobs, stimulate the local economy and improve the quality of life for families in the region."
Earlier today, the governments of Canada and Ontario announced investments of up to $113.2 million and $111.2 million respectively, towards infrastructure initiatives across the province, including the Duckworth interchange.
Under the Building Canada Plan, Canada and Ontario have partnered to provide strategic funding for priority infrastructure needs. Through the Provincial-Territorial Base Fund, the Government of Canada is providing $175 million to strengthen infrastructure in Ontario.
For additional information about federal investments in infrastructure and to stay up-to-date with Infrastructure Canada Web feeds, visit www.infrastructure.gc.ca
For more information on how Ontario is revitalizing its infrastructure, visit www.ontario.ca/infrastructure.
Contacts:
Geneviève Sicard
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
613-991-0700
David Salter
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Transportation and Minister of Infrastructure for Ontario
416-327-1815
Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Or toll-free 1-877-250-7154
